Changing schools

Changing school can be a scary time for you. You might feel excited about new things to see and learn, but a bit scared about having to get to know new teachers and make new friends. You will probably also be sad about the friends and places you had to leave behind.

"I feel really shy when I am meeting new friends. I say "hello" then they say "hello" back and then I keep talking so that they won't think I'm shy."

"It's easy if you just get to know one person. It's hard to go into a big group."

"If you feel lonely or you want to make some friends the worst thing to do is to keep to yourself or be shy because then people will probably not notice you.

"The best thing to do is to answer questions and make suggestions in class and be a happy person to have around, then people might want to be your friend."

"Smile at people and they will want to be your friend."

"Don't try to show off; just be yourself."

Changing schools is not easy and you will feel a bit strange at first, but just go slowly getting to know people, and join in groups or clubs inside and outside school.

If you don't understand all the work, tell your teacher that you learnt different things at your other school.

Your teacher and the other kids will help you if you ask - and it's a good way to get to know others.

Talk with your parents or carers and ask them to help you make friends by coming to the school, finding out about clubs and activities that other kids in the area belong to, and getting to know other parents in your area.

Changing schools can be a bit scary but it can be exciting. It's always a good idea to think about what you want when you are starting something new.

Remember that you get to make a fresh start. If you had a few problems at your last school, you can leave them behind. You can get a new start at a new school!

Our topic 'Getting clever' may give you some ideas about giving yourself the best chance to do well at your new school.

Changing schoolsKiki and her sister MegDidn't want to go.But the house was falling downThe cracks were starting to show.Her parents said,"This house is oldAnd we want a change."So Meg and Kiki's whole livesHad to be rearranged.They packed their bags and shed a tearFor the good friends they would miss.All of their friends said they'd never seenSuch a beautiful house as this.

The moving van drove away, With all the chairs and bedsAfter all that packing and saying goodbyeIt was time to rest their heads.They drove up to their new house.It was new and neat and clean.And when they looked inside it,No cracks were to be seen.They saw their brand new bedroomsAnd thought them rather cool.This was fun but on MondayThey'd have to start their new school.

They walked into the office.Met the Principal Mr Cooks.Went to see their new teacher,Who gave them new work-books.All of the other children stared,When they walked into the room.Which made the girls' hearts flutterAnd filled them full of gloom. But the kids were very friendlyAlthough a little wary.And Meg and Ki enjoyed it(Although it was a bit scary.)So, take a tip from Ki and Meg.Moving schools can be funTo get a friend, you have to be a friend And that's the way it's done.

By Eleanor

We've provided this information to help you to understand important things about staying healthy and happy. However, if you feel sick or unhappy, it is important to tell your mum or dad, a teacher or another grown-up.